.png&w=256&q=75){kind=small}
Do People With Sickle Cell Need Assisted Living?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
People with sickle cell may benefit from the support services and maintenance-free lifestyle that assisted living provides. Many people with sickle cell disease lead fulfilling lives, with some living independently. However, due to the fatigue, pain and health risks associated with the condition, many individuals with sickle cell disease require practical assistance with daily tasks to ensure the best quality of life. Furthermore, assisted living with 24/7 staffing may provide greater peace of mind for individuals and their loved ones.
How assisted living can help people with sickle cell
Assisted living communities relieve some of life’s pressures through the provision of practical services, such as maintenance, housekeeping and meals. Most facilities also provide transportation to medical appointments, and many communities have an on-site or on-call nurse. Alongside attending regular doctor checkups, such services may be especially beneficial when people with sickle cell experience pain crises; severe crises often require hospital admission.
Aides assist residents with personal care and daily activities as necessary, giving vital support while allowing people to live as independently as possible. Such assistance may be especially valuable for people experiencing severe fatigue, pain, vision loss or other symptoms or complications of sickle cell disease. Facilities typically offer leisure and wellness programming in a safe and supervised environment, enhancing life enjoyment for residents.
Alternatives to assisted living for people with sickle cell
Some people with sickle cell live alone or with family. Various services may reduce caregiver burden and ensure individuals obtain the support they need. Home care offers assistance with day-to-day activities, while home health care includes intermittent nursing and therapeutic services. Individuals might also consider attending adult day care programs while other members of the household are at work.People with chronic pain or severe complications of sickle cell may be better suited to nursing home care. Such facilities provide 24/7 monitoring and supervision alongside skilled nursing services and assistance with personal care.